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2012 proved to be a banner year for malware attacks targeting the Mac operating system. Flashback, SabPub, Crisis, and more thoroughly debunked the myth that Macs don't need antivirus protection. McAfee Internet Security for Mac 2013 ($79.99, direct) offers a full security suite of protection for your Mac.

Core ProtectionMcAfee's antivirus component actually protects against Trojans, spyware, adware, worms, and all types of malicious software. In addition to on-demand and scheduled scanning it offers real-time protection. Like VirusBarrier x6 it scans files received as email attachments; McAfee also scans files received through iChat. Besides ridding the system of known malicious files, it can disinfect valid files that have been infected by a virus.

McAfee scans any external drive you insert, to make sure you're not bringing in malware. Panda Antivirus for Mac goes a step further, scanning iOS devices that are connected to your Mac.

The firewall component monitors network activity and watches for misuse of your Mac's ports. In addition, it takes full control over which applications are allowed to communicate via the Internet or access your local network.

Cross-Platform FeaturesPhishing and other social-engineering attacks are completely platform independent. If a scammer convinces you to give away private information, the device you're using isn't important. McAfee's protection against dangerous and fraudulent websites is the same for Macs as for PCs. Trend Micro Smart Surfing for Mac offers similar protection.

The McAfee SiteAdvisor toolbar displays a red, yellow, or green icon to indicate the current site is dangerous, iffy, or safe. It also marks up search results with colored icons, so you can avoid even clicking on dangerous ones. If you use the Safe Search box built into the toolbar, it will display only safe links in its results page.

McAfee Internet Security for Mac 2013 runs under Apple Mac OS X 10.5 or higher. It's currently available in selected retails stores or direct from the McAfee website.

About the Author

Neil Rubenking served as vice president and president of the San Francisco PC User Group for three years when the IBM PC was brand new. He was present at the formation of the Association of Shareware Professionals, and served on its board of directors. In 1986, PC Magazine brought Neil on board to handle the torrent of Turbo Pascal tips submitted b... See Full Bio

McAfee Internet Security for Ma...

McAfee Internet Security for Mac 2013

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